Position Grades: BYU 29, Tennessee 26, 2 OT

Quarterback

Nathanael: F

I’ve been more lenient on Jarrett Guarantano than others, putting more blame on the offensive line and the play-calling of the previous offensive coordinator and previous coaching staffs. But Saturday, Guarantano had more time than he usually does, and it resulted in one of his worst performances in a Tennessee jersey. The redshirt junior was bailed out time and time again by his receivers, and he struggled mightily with throwing on time and making the correct reads. There were only a few times where his receiver or running back made a mistake that cost him a completion. Otherwise, Guarantano was the one at fault. I don’t know why he’s taken the step back that he has to start this season, but it’s very concerning for UT’s offense.

Guarantano didn’t do enough to help the Vols win, and they were able to move the ball in spite of him sometimes. I don’t want to go all in on the kid because there’s certainly plenty of blame to pass around to other units and players from Saturday’s game, but he gets a failing grade from me despite his decent stat line. Both touchdowns could’ve just as easily been interceptions if not for great plays by Jauan Jennings.

Ben: F

I’m giving Jarrett Guarantano an “F” because he failed to put the game away despite having multiple chances to do so. Jauan Jennings was open for at least 20 yards and not only did Guarantano not see him, his throw to the end zone was inaccurate. On the next play, he failed to see Josh Palmer coming open on a post — that would have resulted in a touchdown. Guarantano consistently stared down receivers as if he was dead-set on throwing to the particular player before the ball was even snapped. He also consistently threw into triple coverage trying to force the ball into windows that didn’t exist to begin with. It was a rough night for the fourth-year quarterback.